Looking back on my time in Italy, it is hard to put into words just how much I have learned. When I first arrived, I had this idea that business in Italy would be all about formalities and strict professionalism, especially given the country’s deep history of craftsmanship. But honestly, I could not have been more wrong.
What I did not expect was how much personal relationships and trust matter in the Italian business world. Everywhere we went, from the cozy wine bar to the leather upcycling business, the focus was on building long-term connections, not just making deals. The business owners we met were passionate about what they did, and it showed. They saw their work as part of their legacy, not just a job. This changed the way I think about business. It is not just about getting the job done or making a quick profit; it is about creating something meaningful, something that lasts.
Culturally, I was a little worried that people might be distant or business-oriented. But in reality, Italians are some of the warmest, most welcoming people I have met. They did not just talk business; they invited us into their world, sharing their passion for what they do like we were family. That is something I will always remember. It made me realize that business is not just about transactions; it is about the relationships behind them. In Italy, family and tradition are at the heart of everything, and that really shows in the way they do business.
Looking back, I see that my initial impressions of Italy were off. I thought business here would be all about efficiency and numbers, but what I found was that relationships, trust, and a shared passion are what really drive success. This trip has definitely changed the way I think about business, and I will carry those lessons with me as I move forward in my career.
